2005 Honda Civic Type R review from UK and Ireland

Nothing to report so far.

My previous car was a Corolla D-4d, so I have gone from a pretty torquey car to its exact opposite really.

I was a bit worried by other users saying t had no torque and it s a pain etc. however I haven't found this a problem, its just a matter of adjusting your driving style.

My model is the face lift model so I can't comment on the pre 2004 model.

I like lots of things about this car primarily though the gearbox is something I think is simply fantastic, its like a motorbike gearbox, rifle bolt quick, accurate and snappy, just a pleasure to use and its positioning is near perfect.

The interior is the usual Japanese fare, everything is where it should be and well made, and there is plenty of space too.

Its taken me a little while to adjust to the engine, but Wow what a sound, really exhilarating vocally and to drive, a real master class in engineering, and it feels a lot more powerful to me than figures suggest.

Handling wise it has lots of grip, but I haven't explored the full capability of the chassis yet, the ride is a bit firm, but I knew it would be when I bought it, potholed UK roads can be a nightmare, but it is a sports car.

Costs haven't been too bad so far, but I will report back if things get pricey, fuel, parts and servicing are a lot cheaper than some other equivalent makes.

I would recommend this car, mines probably not run in yet so I'm looking forward to future miles, its definitely a purists car, its no bloated soft roadster, so don't expect limo like ride, just enjoy it for what it is. Lots of fun!